Fifty-eight points later, Alabama was the one still standing after the kind of thrilling season opener that organizers of the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game probably desired. It wasn't flawless or very attractive at times, but the fifth-ranked Crimson Tide used a late charge tonight to beat out seventh-ranked Virginia Tech 34-24 at the Georgia Dome.

In doing so, Alabama (1-0) took a large step toward approaching its 2008 success in 2009.

"We knew we would have to earn it against these guys," Alabama coach Nick Saban said, "and we had to earn it. It was a tough game and it was probably a good thing our team had to go through that. ... This team responded to a lot of adversity in the game and overcame themselves."

Alabama outgained Virginia Tech by a whopping yardage total 498 to 155, yet hurt itself with defensive breakdowns and turnovers before bouncing back behind a surprisingly potent offense.

Tailback Mark Ingram was named the game's offensive MVP after totalling 150 yards on 26 carries.

"It's been a long time since a guy got that many yards against us," Hokies coach Frank Beamer said."

Tide quarterback Greg McElroy was 15-of-30 for 230 yards and a touchdown. They led the Crimson Tide back in a game it trailed 17-16 at the end of the second and third quarters.

"As the game progressed, they got a little tired," McElroy said. "I think that's where our offseason condition and hard work paid off. We were still going strong."

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We'll have plenty more on tonight's victory later on the blog and in tomorrow's Press-Register.